Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce Recipe

The Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is pure bowl happiness. Imagine tender marinated steak, smoky-sweet oven-roasted corn, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and a generous swirl of zesty cilantro-lime sauce. It’s hearty, fresh, and vibrantly colorful—all in one soul-satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore about this recipe is how each ingredient shines in its own way. The list may look long, but every element brings something important—tender steak, charred sweet corn, lush avocado, and the most deliciously tangy cream sauce that ties everything together.

• Flank steak or sirloin: Choose your favorite cut; both deliver a juicy, meaty bite and take well to marinade.
• Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps the marinade and corn roast beautifully.
• Lime juice: Brightens up the steak and gives the cilantro sauce its signature tang.
• Garlic: Infuses bold, aromatic flavor into both the steak and cream sauce.
• Ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika: These spices bring warmth and a hint of smokiness that takes everything to the next level.
• Corn kernels: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness—fresh or frozen both work great.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For a subtle heat in your corn, if you like a little kick!
• Greek yogurt and sour cream: The dream duo for a luxuriously creamy, protein-rich cilantro sauce.
• Fresh cilantro: The true star of the sauce—use both leaves and tender stems for maximized flavor.
• Jalapeño: Just the right touch of gentle spice for the sauce.
• Cooked rice: White or brown, whatever is your grain of choice for soaking up all that saucy goodness.
• Ripe avocados: They add dreamy creaminess and a lovely green pop to every bowl.
• Cherry tomatoes and red onion: For juicy, fresh crunch and a burst of color.
• Cotija or feta cheese: A salty, crumbly finish that makes the dish irresistible.
• Lime wedges and extra cilantro: For serving—don’t skip this final fresh flourish!

Variations

This Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce is built for customization! Don’t be afraid to play with the ingredients or swap things in and out based on what you love or what you have on hand.

• Chicken or Shrimp Swap: Marinate and cook chicken breast or shrimp for a lighter or pescatarian twist.
• Grain Options: Try quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a different texture or a low-carb option.
• Dairy-Free Sauce: Use coconut yogurt and a vegan sour cream alternative for a fully dairy-free bowl.
• Extra Veggies: Load up with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even black beans for a fiber boost!

How to Make Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Fully coat your steak in the marinade, rubbing it in well, then let it rest for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) so the flavors really sink in and tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Make the Cilantro Cream Sauce

While the steak marinates, blend Greek yogurt, sour cream, cilantro (use those tender stems!), lime juice, garlic, half a jalapeño, and salt in a blender or food processor. Whiz until totally smooth and vibrant green—the result is a bold, tangy sauce you’ll want to put on everything.

Step 3: Roast the Corn

Toss corn kernels with olive oil, smoked paprika, a little cayenne (if you want some heat), and a pinch of salt. Spread out on a sheet pan and roast in a hot oven at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, stirring once, until the corn is golden, caramelized, and full of roasty flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Preheat a heavy skillet (cast iron is perfect) over medium-high heat. Sear the steak about 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare—or longer if you prefer it more done. It should develop a tasty, flavorful crust on the outside while staying juicy inside.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Let the steak rest for 5 minutes out of the pan—this keeps the juices in. Slice thinly against the grain for the most tender results.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls!

In big, cozy bowls, start with a layer of warm rice. Add slices of steak, a scoop of roasted corn, fresh avocado, halved tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Generously drizzle with cilantro cream sauce, then finish with crumbled cheese, extra cilantro, and lime wedges. Dive in!

How to Serve Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Top your bowl with an extra sprinkle of cotija or feta cheese, more chopped cilantro, and a big squeeze of fresh lime. If you love crunch, add a handful of toasted pepitas or crispy tortilla strips for a delightful contrast.

Side Dishes

This bowl honestly needs very little else, but a fresh cucumber salad, charred tortillas, or even some chips and guacamole create a festive, complete meal. A citrusy margarita wouldn’t hurt either!

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, set out all the toppings “bar-style” so everyone can assemble their own Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce just the way they like. Or, serve it in mason jars for a fun, portable lunch option for picnics or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep all the components—steak, corn, rice, sauce, and veggies—stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making this bowl a dreamy option for weekday lunches.

Freezing

The cooked steak and roasted corn freeze beautifully—just cool completely and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. The fresh veggies and the cilantro cream sauce, however, are best enjoyed fresh for ideal texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm steak, corn, and rice gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to keep everything tender. Add the sauce, avocado, and raw veggies after reheating for the best taste and color.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that feels just as joyful to make as it does to eat, the Steak Avocado and Roasted Corn Bowl with Cilantro Cream Sauce truly delivers. Gather your favorite people (or treat yourself!), pile everything high, and savor all those zesty, smoky, creamy layers. I can’t wait for you to try it!

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